Social media principles existed long ago

For centuries, humans have participated in 'social media' in one form or another. We've always recommended businesses or products and shared photos just in a different manner.

Harvard Business Review looked into the archives and found a 1966 study discussing the principles of "social media."

Now, the vehicle has changed. Without question, Facebook and Twitter make it easier to share and recommend certain products or brands, but social media principles have been discussed...at least four decades ago.

So, if it helps, realize that the vehicles have changed slightly (Facebook, Twitter), but social media has existed for centuries.

Twitter: Tips to increase your following

Twitter is a little newer although it has gained momentum quickly. The social media site has been 'branded' (so to speak) as a microphone for celebrities; however, it could provide a more functional benefit.

Twitter is a great public relations/educational tool. Educationally, it organizes information efficiently for users by allowing them to sift through posts and explore personally relevant ones.

To help you, here are 10 suggestions to help you increase your Twitter following. And, you may want to avoid the 'bonus tip.'

- Brian Sonnenberg

Twitter account for UH Web Forum

Since new media offers great synergistic opportunities, I just started a Twitter feed specifically for our group of web dealers. Posts on this blog will feed directly into the Twitter account.

Although celebrities and athletes receive the most attention for posting on Twitter, it can be extremely valuable not only as a marketing tool but also as an educational tool. When you choose who to follow, do it wisely because you will receive the information they "tweet" some of which can be quite valuable to you.

Even if you never post a "tweet," Twitter is a great way to monitor trends in your industry. What a great educational tool!